Why Wayne Rooney's return to Everton makes perfect sense

05 July 2017, 18:12

The Manchester United captain is reportedly close to returning to Goodison Park and it's a move that makes sense for Everton

In a transfer window that is shaping up to be a phenomenal one for Everton, the latest player to be linked is Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney.

Rooney endured a difficult season with United last year, struggling to find his place in Jose Mourinho’s plans as he had done under Louis van Gaal previously.

With him earning £250,000-per-week at Old Trafford, those at the club seem keen to move him on to pastures new and Goodison Park is his likely destination.

A return to Merseyside is being hotly disputed among the Everton faithful though. One on hand are those who are willing to welcome back their former prodigy; on the other stand those who cannot forget his previous sins.

The former will argue that a return makes sense; Rooney can add vast experience and know-how that is desperately needed at Everton. The latter will contest that the England captain is past his best and not good enough anymore.

An in-depth look at the move though shows that it is one that makes perfect sense for Everton both on and off the pitch.

First and foremost, those saying Rooney isn’t good enough do have a point. Rooney hasn’t managed double figures in terms of goals for several seasons and he has looked short of both form and fitness for at least two seasons.

Regardless of opinion, he is an improvement on what Ronald Koeman currently has at his disposal in the current Everton squad.

There is also the issue of motivation to consider. Next year England will be heading to the World Cup in Russia. Given his age, it is likely the last tournament that Rooney has a chance of going to with his country.

Make no mistake, he will be determined to be a part of that group. A fully fit motivated Wayne Rooney who is determined to make it to Russia could prove to be a huge asset to Everton.

His experience is also a valuable asset that the Blues can use. Rooney has won almost everything in club football, has experience of big games both domestically and in Europe.

That would be a welcome addition to a relatively inexperienced Everton team. Having that kind of know-how in a dressing room is often crucial to success.

Off the pitch, his influence is huge also. Rooney is a huge brand name who works with huge brands himself bringing in millions of merchandising. A look at his social media profiles shows just how big a name he is.

The Everton brand, which is significantly smaller than brand Rooney, can only benefit from having him on the books. The commercial opportunities are endless.

Whatever way it’s considered, a Rooney return to Everton makes perfect sense. On and off the pitch, he’s exactly what they need.